What This 13-Position IDC Receptacle Does in the MTA-156 Line
The TE Connectivity MTA-156 4-643819-3 is a 13-position, single-row receptacle that terminates 22 AWG discrete or ribbon cable using insulation displacement (IDC). The Closed End and Polarizing Key features prevent mis-mating and block the last position, which is useful when you need to key a harness to a specific header variant. The red housing colour is the factory standard for this position count in the MTA-156 family.
Termination and Wire Fit — IDC for 22 AWG Only
It is tooled specifically for 22 AWG — using a different gauge will either not cut cleanly (too thick) or leave a loose connection (too thin). The contact finish is 80.0µin (2.03µm) of tin, which is a robust plating for moderate mating cycles (typically 25 to 50 cycles) in a dry, indoor environment. For applications that see frequent disconnect or corrosive atmospheres, a gold-plated MTA-156 variant would be a better choice, but for a fixed harness in a control cabinet or appliance, this tin finish is cost-effective and reliable.
Mating and Compatibility — Which Headers Work
The 4-643819-3 mates with any MTA-156 header of the same 13-position count and 0.156" pitch — these are the standard unshrouded or shrouded vertical and right-angle headers in the MTA-156 series. The polarizing key (a filled position in the housing) prevents mating with a header that has a pin in that location, so you can key different harnesses in the same assembly. There is no direct pin-compatible alternative outside the MTA-156 family — the pitch and IDC termination are specific to this series.